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If you think that Ilocos Sur is limited to merely being a place full of preserved history. Then you are definitely missing out!
This province also hides majestic places. Something that would make you say wow!
Follow me as we explore one of natures best kept secrets.
With its mesmerizing landscape, who wouldn’t be allured with this beauty?
This is PINSAL FALLS!
Located at Brgy. Baballasioan, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, Pinsal is considered as the largest waterfalls in the entire Ilocandia. Boasting a towering height of 85ft, it is no secret that Pinsal is definitely something to beat.
With the breathtaking facade of the walls, you may think that it’s already the best view you can experience, but of course nature holds too much surprises!
They say that a trip to Pinsal Falls isn’t complete without climbing the carved steps on the rock wall to the top. The view would surely make you shout out the good vibes in you. Woohoo!!!
After taking it all in, let’s head on to the upper stream of the falls. Deep fresh water pools can be seen scattered all over the place. Some even deep enough for swimming and diving. But for our non-swimmer friends out there, don’t fret! There are shallow jacuzzi like water pools that nature has provided especially for you.
I’m gonna let you in on a secret! One of these scattered pools is believed to be the footprint of the mythical Ilocano giant named Angalo. It is said that he was looking for his wife Aran in this place during the younger years of the earth hence leaving his footprint.
Who knows? You might be diving in it!
THINGS TO DO
Food Trip!
As always for us Filipinos, food trip will always be our priority. After all, our mantra is “Food is life”.
Here’s a tip! There are no nearby restaurants or stores available, so bring enough food for the whole group. You don’t want anybody going hungry!
Swimming and Bamboo Rafting
Upgrade your swimming experience by renting a bamboo raft and get close to the falls. Feel its cool waters drenching to your body. So refreshing!
Don’t forget to rent yourself a life vest for your safety.
This part of the trip is definitely a fun experience.
The Natural Jacuzzi Experience
Tired of the thrilling adventure? Comfy spots are available for you to just chill and relax. Free jacuzzi is rare, so might as well plunge in!
Trekking
There are 2 ways to get to the falls. One is to ride a pump boat upstream. This would only take a few seconds to the cottages. The second one is to trek towards the view deck and the falls. It would take you a few minutes but the scenery will surely make it up for that extra bit of walking. Good scenery, better pictures!
Fresh Water Shellfish Picking
We were lucky enough to have the chance to catch some shellfish on the fresh water beds of the falls because it was on season. Ginisang Shellfish is the best way to cook it! Yummy!
BEST TIME TO VISIT
From June to December – when the water is on its full blast during rainy season.
HOW TO GET THERE
By Private Car:
Waze/Google Maps: Just Pin Pinsal Falls
By Commute:
From Cubao – Partas, Dominion Busline, Viron, Florida Bus,
From Manila – Partas, Farinas Trans, Florida Bus, Aniceto Trans, Maria De Leon, RCJ Busline, Viron
From Pasay – Partas
You can ride any bus going to Vigan, Laoag or Abra. Travel time is 5-7 hours to Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. Landmark is Savemore Sta. Maria.
From Savemore, ride a tricycle going to Pinsal Falls for only Php100 (oneway) and in 15 minutes you’ll arrive to the one of the most alluring waterfalls you’ve ever seen.
NO ENTRANCE FEE
But during holidays, they tend to limit people entering the area, and the LGUs collect Php20 per group for the environmental fee.
It feels great to explore new places but it is always better to be a responsible traveler. You can have fun as much as you want but let us all maintain the beauty and cleanliness of each of the places we visit, so that others can also enjoy the experience.
And lastly, Make Life an Adventure!
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